Overcoming the challenge of constructing a new dwelling within a flood-prone conservation area proved to be no small accomplishment; let the impressive outcome serve as an inspiration.

Overcoming the challenge of constructing a new dwelling within a flood-prone conservation area proved to be no small accomplishment; let the impressive outcome serve as an inspiration.

In the heart of Cambridge, a couple named Matthew and Anna embarked on a self-build project with a unique set of challenges and considerations. Their aim was to construct a family-friendly home that respects the local environment and preserves the area's character.

Planning Permission and Restrictions in Conservation Areas

Their decision to demolish the existing house and rebuild came with strict regulations. Demolition required planning permission, and the house, being of a certain size, fell under these requirements. Conservation areas have restricted permitted development rights, meaning even extensions are often subject to stricter planning controls compared to non-conservation areas.

The couple's project was evaluated based on preserving or enhancing the area's character or appearance. Extensions and alterations have limits, such as single-storey rear extensions beyond specific depths, extensions protruding beyond original roof planes, or changes visible from principal elevations, which typically require permission. Trees are also protected by law, impacting landscaping or extension plans.

Family-Friendly Features Considerations

When extending, it's crucial to maximise natural light, space flow, and accessibility to accommodate family living. The couple's home, while adhering to external design constraints, was tailored to their specific needs. Additional bedrooms, play areas, and an open-plan living space were incorporated into the design.

Outbuildings and ancillary spaces, such as garden sheds and garages, also require planning permission if within conservation area limits and must be designed sensitively.

Flood Prevention and Environmental Considerations

Properties near wetlands or watercourses must respect buffer zones to prevent flooding and preserve ecosystems. The couple's house incorporates these requirements, with the ground floor raised by 400mm and the terrace at the back of the house positioned two meters away from the flood zone.

Natural landscaping with native plants is encouraged to enhance flood resilience and integrate with the local ecology. The house also features external bird and bat boxes, including specialist boxes for swallows, in keeping with its proximity to a county wildlife site.

A Traditional Design with Modern Touches

The project's architect, Richard Owers, designed a classically proportioned house with a smaller wing. Brick, stone, and slate were used to create a traditional local materials palette that brings warmth and familiarity. A steel frame was erected on the south facade to allow for the installation of continuous glazing at a later date. Horizontal stone fins were included on the front elevation as an architectural reference and to create unity across the whole front elevation.

Small details in the design, such as a toddler-sized door between two children's rooms and a hatch from one bedroom onto the stairs, make the house very playful for the children. The house also boasts rows of solar panels on the south-facing roof to supply green energy to the property.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Walls are heavily insulated to ensure the home is energy efficient. The couple opted for a sustainable drainage system to manage excess surface water, and the house retains a footprint similar to the demolished house but has an additional third storey for extra sleeping space.

In essence, extending is often less disruptive, cheaper, and easier to gain consent for in a conservation area but comes with limits on design and scale due to preservation goals. Demolishing and rebuilding can allow greater customisation for family needs and flood resilience but face much tougher planning hurdles and costs due to the conservation status and demolition controls. Careful consultation with planning authorities and flood/environmental experts is essential before deciding.

[1] Planning Portal. (2021). Planning permission for demolition. [online] Available at: https://www.planningportal.gov.uk/info/200130/common_projects/15/demolition

[2] Environment Agency. (2021). Flood risk and planning. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/planning-policy-for-flood-risk

[3] Local Government Association. (2021). Planning for the future: reforming the planning system. [online] Available at: https://www.local.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2020-08/planning-for-the-future-reforming-the-planning-system.pdf

[4] Tree Preservation Orders. (2021). Tree Preservation Orders. [online] Available at: https://www.cambridge.gov.uk/residents/planning-and-building-control/planning-policy/tree-preservation-orders

[5] Cambridge City Council. (2021). Planning applications. [online] Available at: https://www.cambridge.gov.uk/residents/planning-and-building-control/planning-applications

1. The couple's self-build project in Cambridge required careful planning due to the strict regulations in conservation areas, necessitating planning permission for demolition.
2. The house, being of a certain size, fell under the planning permission requirements due to its demolition.
3. In conservation areas, even extensions are subject to stricter planning controls compared to non-conservation areas due to restricted permitted development rights.
4. The couple's project was evaluated based on preserving or enhancing the area's character or appearance, with limits on extensions and alterations.
5. Maximizing natural light, space flow, and accessibility were crucial considerations for the design of the family-friendly home.
6. Outbuildings and ancillary spaces, such as garden sheds and garages, also require planning permission if within conservation area limits and must be designed sensitively.
7. Properties near wetlands or watercourses must respect buffer zones to prevent flooding and preserve ecosystems, as the couple's house incorporates.
8. The house features external bird and bat boxes, including specialist boxes for swallows, in keeping with its proximity to a county wildlife site.
9. The architect, Richard Owers, designed a classically proportioned house with a smaller wing, using traditional local materials like brick, stone, and slate.
10. The house boasts rows of solar panels on the south-facing roof to supply green energy to the property, and the design includes small details such as a toddler-sized door between children's rooms.
11. Walls are heavily insulated, and the couple opted for a sustainable drainage system to manage excess surface water, ensuring the home is energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

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